South Africa coach Heyneke Meyer lauds Willie le Roux performance

Le Roux contributed one of South Africa’s five tries and played a part in three others during an all action performance in the first Test of the two-match series on Saturday.

South Africa coach Meyer was thrilled with the attacking intent showed by his team, but reserved particular praise for his number 15.

“I will take five tries to one anytime, anywhere in the world,” said Meyer.

“Last week we scored six against a World XV and now five against one of the top defensive teams around.

“Willie is probably the best full-back in the world at the moment. He is playing with a lot of confidence and has a licence to express himself. I am very happy about his progress since he started on the wing last season.

“I challenged him to improve his aerial skills and defence last season and he did that very well.”

South Africa’s victory was all the more impressive given the raft of injuries they were hampered by in the build-up to the match.

Meyer praised the character in his squad but warned there is still work to do in Nelspruit next Saturday.

“It was a tough week with a lot of disruptions,” he added.

“I asked the guys to put their bodies on the line as it was important for us to start well. I am very pleased with their response and effort, especially in the first half. I am very proud to be coach of this team.

“But there is still some hard work ahead as we made too many mistakes in the second half. However, the nice part of that is that we can put in the hard yards this week. We can only get better the more we play together.”